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Are you in search of a dish that effortlessly combines comfort, flavor, and nutrition? Look no further than the Cheesy Balsamic Casserole. This delightful recipe showcases a medley of ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, tangy undertones, and a fresh burst from the vegetables, this casserole is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a family-friendly option that accommodates various dietary preferences, particularly vegetarian diets.

Cheesy Balsamic Casserole

Discover the comforting and nutritious Cheesy Balsamic Casserole, a dish that perfectly blends rich flavors and vibrant vegetables. This easy-to-make casserole features a delightful combination of creamy cheeses, penne pasta, and fresh produce like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it's a crowd-pleaser that caters to vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste. Enjoy a wholesome meal that's sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking later.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, and roughly chopped spinach. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, then sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently until all the vegetables are well-coated with the oil and seasonings.

      Mix Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the balsamic vinegar over the mixture and stir gently to ensure that the pasta and vegetables are evenly mixed together.

        Incorporate the Cheeses: Gently fold in the ricotta cheese along with half of the shredded mozzarella, mixing until the pasta and vegetables are coated with the creamy cheese.

          Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Carefully transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire surface.

            Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling with a beautiful golden brown color.

              Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 6